The European Commission has pushed back against automotive makers’ calls to delay the upcoming 2025 CO2 reduction targets, asserting that the industry has had ample time to arrange for the changes.
Under current EU regulations, manufacturers must reduce average CO2 emissions of their vehicles by 15% by next 12 months, in comparison with 2021 levels.
Nonetheless, a leaked industry paper, reportedly spearheaded by Renault and its CEO Luca de Meo, who also heads the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), had suggested a two-year delay. The paper warns that carmakers face potential fines of as much as €16 billion in the event that they fail to fulfill the goal.
Tim McPhie, a spokesperson for the Commission on climate motion, dismissed the decision for postponement, stating: “The 2025 goal requires – and enables – manufacturers to develop a comprehensive compliance strategy.”
He went on to notice that the goal had not been revised in recent times and was adopted by lawmakers in 2019, giving the industry “quite a while to arrange”.
The delay request stems from concerns that the market share of electrical vehicles (EVs) is stagnating below 15%, while a 20-22% share is required to fulfill the 2025 CO2 reduction goals.
ACEA has highlighted an absence of charging infrastructure, reasonably priced green energy, and other incentives as major barriers to achieving widespread EV adoption.
In an announcement, ACEA called for a “substantive and holistic review” of the CO2 regulations. They argue that without addressing these issues, carmakers will struggle to fulfill the required targets.
Environmental groups have branded the proposal “cynical and absurd,” pointing to the numerous profits made by carmakers in recent times.
Expert Ferdinand Dudenhöffer from the Centre for Automotive Research in Germany supported the industry position, citing German political decisions as a significant factor within the slowdown of EV sales.
He blamed the German government’s sudden withdrawal of its electric automotive bonus for hampering EV growth, stating:“Why the numbers are falling in Europe is entirely right down to Germany.”
As the controversy continues, ACEA is anticipated to debate the proposal imminently. Regardless of concern concerning the looming financial penalties some manufacturers such asStellantis back the present regime.
This Article First Appeared At www.am-online.com
